Winston Keith Baer was born March 6, 1928, in Longview, Washington.  He passed away April 6, 2015 — his big heart just wore out.

Dad was the youngest of five. He attended school in Lewiston, Idaho, where he was active in many activities, including National Honor Society and sports, lettering in baseball, football and boxing. He was twice named an All-State Football Player and twice won the Heavyweight Golden Glove Championships for the Northwest Region (Idaho, Oregon and Washington). He was invited to play in two Shrine football games and selected to take the game ball to the Shrine Hospital in Spokane.

Dad said his greatest high school accomplishment was courting and marrying the love of his life, Ruth E. Judd. They were married following their graduation from high school in 1946. They enjoyed 68 years together and raised four children. He was especially proud that all four graduated from college. During their life journey together they lived in several states, often joking that each of us was born in a different state.  

Dad loved the Lord and raised us kids to know God’s love too.  

Dad strongly supported programs that helped children. He was active in Kiwanis where he served in many capacities including Montana District governor. He was also a member of Elks and the Masons.  

Dad left a wake of love and laughter everywhere he went. He started A-1 Vacuum & Janitorial Supply in 1971. Mom and Dad retired in 1991 and moved to Polson where they enjoyed their home on Flathead Lake. It became a haven of joy for all who visited.  

Dad is survived by his wife, Ruth, at the family home; and his four children, Fran Tabor of Kalispell, Larry and Maureen Baer of West DeMoines, Iowa, Winstenia and Tom Lambdin, and Winston Keith Baer II,  of Missoula; 15 grandchildren, 21 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Dad was a member of Polson Community Church where his funeral service will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, April 11. The family will scatter his ashes on his beloved lake this summer.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to a children’s charity of your choice.